Dubai is accelerating its strategic shift plan for its aviation hub. As a key component of the $35 billion expansion project of Al Maktoum International Airport, Emarat, the UAE General Oil Company, recently awarded an engineering design services contract to the Middle East subsidiary of the German Bilfinger Group to construct a new end-to-end jet fuel supply pipeline for the airport. This progress marks the full implementation phase of Dubai's plan to build the world's largest airport.

The airport expansion project was approved by the government in April 2024 and plans to gradually relocate all operational operations of Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum International Airport within ten years. This strategic shift will not only greatly enhance Dubai's air transportation capacity, but also create housing demand for approximately one million people in the surrounding areas of the airport, driving the formation of a new urban development center.

The project adopts an international cooperation model, with a joint team consisting of Austrian Coop Himmelb (l) au architectural firm and Lebanese Dar Al Handasah serving as the chief overall planning and design consultant. The first phase of construction work has been fully launched: in May of this year, Binladin Contracting Group in the United Arab Emirates won a second runway construction contract worth 1 billion dirhams; Meanwhile, Tristar E&C in Abu Dhabi is responsible for the construction of the supporting facilities for the terminal building. The entire first phase is expected to be completed before 2032.

The award of the fuel pipeline design contract to Bilfinger Middle East ensures that the core energy supply system of the airport is synchronized with the main project. As a key component of aviation infrastructure, this pipeline will directly support the daily operational needs of future airports, reflecting Dubai's forward-looking planning for coordinated development of the entire system in mega engineering projects. Keywords: Middle East news and information, Middle East international news

This globally anticipated aviation hub construction project will not only consolidate Dubai's position as an international transportation hub, but also provide strong impetus for the UAE's economic diversification strategy by creating a large number of job opportunities and driving the development of related industries. As the project continues to advance, Dubai is steadily moving towards the goal of building a world-class aviation center.Editor/Cheng Liting